Le Bistro de Breteuil - Paris

3, place de Breteuil (Invalides area)
01 45 67 07 27
www.bistrocie.fr

On our first night in Paris, our cousins took us to this charming brasserie with seating in the outdoor terrace, overlooking the square and surrounded by many upscale residences and storefronts. On this Sunday evening, most of the places were closed except for the restaurant that breathed life in this area.

Willy Dorr is the man behind this bistro, along with 6 other bistrots in Paris, and all of them serves a "tout compris" (everything included) menu, which is nice knowing that you'll be ordering and how much exactly you'll be spending.

For 38 €, the meal starts with a refreshing house aperitif of Kir Royale, a starter (entree), main course (plat), dessert, a bottle of wine for two, and coffee. According to the website, the summer menu was elaborated by Jean-Jacques Jouteux (Michelin and Gault-Millau Gastronomic Guides).

Tuna tartar
The tuna tartar was served atop fresh bean sprouts, chives, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil. The tuna was really fresh and the crunchy bean sprouts gave the dish some texture and a nice refreshing taste. It felt a bit too Asian though because I'm not used to bean sprouts with other types of cuisines.
Potato Gratin in Foie Gras sauce
The potato gratin was baked with Gruyere cheese, one of my favorites and the rich sauce had some pieces of foie gras in it. Very delicious. Roast Rack of Lamb in Thyme Juice and Potato Gratin
This rack of lamb was cooked to perfection and the thyme essence was just right and not overpowering. Sole Meunière and Buttered Potato Purée
The sole was browned in butter sauce with lemon juice. The fish was nice and the flavoring of the sauce was mild.
Crêpes
The crêpes were brought out with the flames still burning atop them. (See below for the bluish/purple flames) They were flambeed with Grand Marnier, which was so strong that I could not get past even 2 bites and had to give it away to my friend.
Vanilla Crème Brûlée
The crème brûlée was very soft and creamy. My cousin says crème brûlée with fruits on top is an American thing.
The atmosphere was relaxing and elegant. The service was great with gracious and attentive servers. Afterwards, you can also take a nice romantic stroll towards the lighted Eiffel Tower.